Kairos International Prison Ministry Needs Local Volunteers.
Your local Kairos Prison Ministry chapter is comprised of volunteers from Austin, to New Braunfels, to San Antonio. We serve the Reuben Torres Unit in Hondo, TX. Kairos has ONE mission with THREE programs. Kairos Inside is for incarcerated men inside the prison. Kairos Outside is for women impacted by incarceration, and Kairos Torch is for incarcerated youth. Our mission is to share the transforming love of Jesus Christ to impact the hearts and lives of Incarcerated men and their families, to become loving and productive citizens of their communities. It's God's plan to reach these people. We are just a part of it. Would you like to volunteer and involve your church?
Email Craig.Jones@citylifestyle.com for contact form: Name, Church that you attend, phone number, email address, check box to volunteer for prayer support, agape love support, financial contribution, Kairos Inside, Kairos Support team (food prep and prayer), Kairos Outside, Kairos Torch.
Savor, Sip, and Celebrate!
As the seasons change in New Braunfels, the air fills with the aromas of our favorite foods and drinks. It’s the perfect time to immerse yourself in the local culture which means live music, heading to Wurstfest for a top shelf New Braunfels experience, pre-gaming with your smoker before a football game, or enjoying live music with friends and family.
Wurstfest holds a special place in our hearts, and we’re excited to share cherished memories from our readers. Another New Braunfels tradition is savoring a monster cheeseburger while listening to live music at The Iron Horse or discovering what it means to “Drink Lokal” with your friends at The Villa. We also have some fantastic insights into healthy eating to keep you feeling your best this season.
Food has a unique way of bringing us together. Whether we’re sharing a meal with loved ones or celebrating the incredible live music talent in our community, the time spent enjoying food and quality beverages is truly invaluable.
This time of year always takes me back to my smoker, where I’ve celebrated countless moments with friends and family. I’m thrilled to share my go-to recipe for Baby Back Ribs, perfect for enjoying the dinner table at home.
Thank you for reading, and we look forward to seeing you around town!
October 2024
PUBLISHER
Craig Jones | craig.jones@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
Samantha Bowers | samantha.bowers@citylifestyle.com
EDITORIAL COORDINATOR
Chelsey Juarez | chelsey.juarez@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Casey Frank, Troy Green
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Casey Frank, Samantha Bowers
Corporate Team
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt
CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Matthew Endersbe
LAYOUT DESIGNER Kathy Nguyen
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city scene
1: Kylee Self & Shannon Coufal at McAdoo’s for a midweek lunch. 2: The Chamber’s Business-Education Committee annual Back-to-School Luncheon to celebrate the 2024 Teachers of the Year 3: Evelina Solís & Ada Cook enjoying a sweet and healthy treat. 4: Iron Horse Bar & Grill Christmas in July Trivia Winners. 5: Realtor Lindsay Semper making good on bet to fellow Realtor Yitzchak Pierson. 6: Plant Culture’s ribbon cutting ceremony with the New Braunfels Chamber of Commerce. 7: Courtney Bliss, Neetika Sharad, Michelle Inman & Friends at The Villa/ NBTX City Lifestyle Monthly Mixer.
Empowering People, Improving Lives, One Ear At A Time.
It brings me great joy to put a smile on someone’s face because their quality of life has improved through better hearing. Each day I strive to understand what is going on with a patient so I can help them achieve the best outcome possible. I feel fortunate to have a private practice where I am free to treat each patient as an individual. They are not a number to me and I can offer them the best solution based on their lifestyle needs, not the requirements of a corporate business. Hearing is so important for brain health. Being proactive with your hearing is known to delay and even prevent the onset of dementia. Everyone needs a baseline hearing test!
Dr. Sally
I was isolated because I could not participate in conversations well and I was missing out on life. But not anymore, thanks to Dr. Sally.”
to A NIGHT
Gruene
Studios & The Villa Launch the Songwriters Showcase
ARTICLE BY CASEY FRANK
On the evening of August 19, 2024, the heart of Texas music pulsed with renewed energy as Gruene Studios and The Villa joined forces to launch the Songwriters Showcase. This bi-monthly singer-songwriter competition was designed to spotlight and elevate the region's thriving musical talent, offering a platform where emerging artists could shine. The inaugural event drew a crowd of over 200 enthusiastic attendees, all eager to witness twelve of the most promising singer-songwriters in the area take the stage.
The evening's lineup was nothing short of exceptional, showcasing a diverse array of talent that included Benjamin Cole, Sydney Sims, Kade Isakson, Joe Congdon, Poet Hawkins, Joe McCabe, Keith Davis, Jake Gardener, Hilton Johnson, Jay Morris, Coby Rotan, and Pat Latin. Each artist brought their own unique style and voice to the stage, creating an atmosphere rich in musical diversity and raw emotion. The performances spanned a wide range of genres, from blues and rock to pop, alternative, bluegrass, and country, ensuring that every musical preference was catered to, and leaving the audience thoroughly engaged from start to finish.
The Villa, a renowned full-service bar and live music venue known for its lively and inviting atmosphere, provided the perfect setting for this electric night of music. As the crowd settled in, the air was thick with anticipation, with everyone eager to discover which artist would emerge as the standout performer of the night. Contestants invited friends and family from near and far, and local residents showed up in the dozens to support their local favorites.
Gruene Studios, the newest addition to the local music scene, co-hosted the event, adding a significant layer of prestige to the competition.
Founded by AJ Vallejo, an award-winning Texas music producer with a long list of accolades, and award-winning production director Sean Semler, Gruene Studios has quickly become a hub for both up-and-coming and established artists. Known for its state-of-the-art analog and digital recording capabilities, the studio has already made its mark as a cornerstone of the local music scene, offering top-notch facilities for artists to hone their craft and bring their musical visions to life.
The stakes at the Songwriters Showcase were undeniably high. The top performer of the night, determined by a combination of audience votes and evaluations from a panel of esteemed music industry professionals, stood to win a truly remarkable prize: the opportunity to record two original songs at Gruene Studios, entirely free of charge. The judging panel featured prominent figures from the music industry, including drummer Michael Kelton from Pat Green's team, John Michael Whitby of George Strait's Ace In The
Hole Band, comedian Steve Trevinio, and Alex Weeden, guitarist for Parker McCollum. Their presence lent an air of credibility and excitement to the event, as each judge brought their own wealth of experience and insight to the table.
In addition to the recording opportunity, the winner would also be featured in "Drunken Poets," a self-funded project dedicated to spotlighting exceptional Texas songwriters and performers. This unique initiative aims to celebrate the rich musical heritage of Texas while providing a platform for talented songwriters to reach a wider audience.
As the lights dimmed and the crowd began to disperse, it was clear that the first Songwriters Showcase had been a resounding success. The event left an indelible mark on everyone in attendance, with many already looking forward to the next showcase, scheduled for October 21st.
With the bar set high and the excitement building, there's no doubt that the upcoming event will once again bring together extraordinary talent and deliver another unforgettable night of music.
The evening reached its peak with a stellar performance by Sydney Sims, who captivated both the judges and the audience with her powerful renditions of "Sweat and Bleed" and "Never Be The Same." Her victory not only earned her the coveted recording opportunity at Gruene Studios but also secured her a place in "Drunken Poets," setting a high bar for future contestants and solidifying her status as a rising star in the Texas music scene.
BREWING a Great TEA PARTY
ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY
SAMANTHA BOWERS
One of Downtown New Braunfel's newest fixtures is the quintessential shop known as The Tea Charmer. More than just a tea shop, this experience will have you transported to another time and space. We popped in on Jayna Owens for a day of tea parties and fun.
My visits to The Tea Charmer have become a cherished part of my routine. The shop's inviting charm and the exclusive, unique tea blends that I've discovered keep drawing me back. The blueberry pineapple ice tea, the happy blend, and the sleepy blend are among my top picks, each offering a distinct and soothing experience.
However, on this particular Sunday, as I entered the building at ground level, the flavors of delicious delectables wafted down the stairs. Don't worry; there is also elevator access toward the back of the building in case the stairs aren't your cup of tea. Once on the main floor, the ambiance fills you with a sense of excitement and anticipation of the events about to unfold.
AS JAYNA SUCCINCTLY PUTS IT,
“THE TEA CHARMER’S MISSION IS NOT JUST TO SELL TEA. WE WANT TO CREATE AN atmosphere WHERE OUR CUSTOMERS CAN create A PLACE OF refuge WITHIN THEIR OWN HOMES.”
One of The Tea Charmer's authentic charms is its ability to host events for groups of two to fifty. While preparing today's menu of Belgian waffle bites and 2Tarts Bakery macaroons, Jayna shared tips on crafting an unforgettable experience for her guests.
She tells how the tea parties at The Tea Charmer have become a beloved experience among customers, who often express their delight with the shop's ambiance and offerings. A common sentiment echoed by visitors is, "I want to live here!" This simple yet heartfelt exclamation brings immense joy to Jayna and her team. It signifies that they are achieving their mission of creating an atmosphere that promotes a desire for healthy respite, intimate conversations, and self-care. The Tea Charmer's unique atmosphere, a vintage carriage and phone booth, multiple flower walls, chandeliers, and stunning downtown views have made it a sought-after venue for baby showers, bridal showers, birthday parties, and corporate meetings.
Her true passion is creating an experience for all those who visit. Whether it's mommy-daughter tea time or taking a new blend home to savor later, it brings her joy.
A standout feature at The Tea Charmer is the chance for customers to create their signature tea blends. This hands-on experience lets tea lovers mix herbs and teas to craft a unique blend. "Everyone has their unique cup of tea, and this is our way of showing that," says Jayna. The shop provides guides to help customers choose herbs that pair well, ensuring they leave with a blend that perfectly suits their taste.
The Tea Charmer also prides itself on offering a wide variety of teas, with up to 10 different flavored iced teas and over 20 loose-leaf teas available at any given time. These selections are constantly evolving, reflecting the seasons, customer feedback, and the latest trends in tea sourcing. The shop's iced teas have become bestsellers, especially in the sweltering Texas heat. With such a diverse range of flavors, there's always something new and exciting to try, turning a hot day into a magical summer experience.
In addition to its iced teas, The Tea Charmer offers an array of unique tea blends that cater to a wide range of tastes and preferences. Flavors like lemon meringue, pumpkin pie, chocolate chai, dark chocolate peppermint, vanilla berry truffle, and caramelized pear are just a few of the shop's creative offerings. Jayna also mentions blends for those seeking the health benefits of tea; blends like sleepy tea, cleanse tea, cold and flu brew, and feel better tea are also popular choices.
Jayna's vision for The Tea Charmer goes beyond tea. The shop offers a curated selection of home goods, bath products, stationery, clothing, and jewelry. These items enhance the tea experience, helping customers create a personal sanctuary at home. The shop offers everything from soft blankets and loungewear to essential oils and bath salts, all designed to complement the relaxing ritual of tea.
Jayna succinctly says, "The Tea Charmer's mission is not just to sell tea. We want to create an atmosphere where our customers can find refuge within their homes." With its carefully curated products and inviting atmosphere, The Tea Charmer has successfully become a place where customers can find the inspiration and the tools to create their own perfect tea experience at home.
ARTICLE BY TROY GREEN
as Medicine THE POWER OF FOOD
KEY NUTRITIONAL STRATEGIES FOR GUT HEALTH, INFLAMMATION, ENERGY, INSULIN SUPPORT, AND SLEEP.
Your body is a temple and nobody knows that better than a functional medicine doctor. Blue Agave Functional Medicine in New Braunfels is committed to a holistic approach to health, emphasizing the healing power of food. By incorporating specific foods into your diet, you can improve gut health, reduce inflammation, support insulin sensitivity, boost energy, and promote better sleep—key components of overall well-being.
“Whether improving gut health, reducing inflammation, supporting insulin function, boosting energy, or enhancing sleep, the right food choices can make a profound impact.”
Gut Health and Digestion: A healthy gut supports digestion, immune function, and mental well-being. To nurture it, focus on fiber, prebiotics, and probiotics.
• Key Foods: Fermented foods like kimchi and yogurt, fiber-rich vegetables like asparagus, and bone broth to support digestion.
Reducing Inflammation: Chronic inflammation is linked to heart disease and diabetes. Antiinflammatory foods can promote long-term health.
• Key Foods: Omega-3-rich fatty fish, turmeric with curcumin, and antioxidant-packed berries help reduce inflammation.
Supporting Insulin Sensitivity: Balancing blood sugar is essential to reducing the risk of diabetes.
• Key Foods: Cinnamon for improving insulin sensitivity, magnesium-rich leafy greens, and fiberpacked nuts and seeds.
Boosting Energy: To maintain consistent energy, choose foods that offer sustained fuel.
• Key Foods: Complex carbs like quinoa, B vitamin-rich eggs and legumes, and healthy fats from avocados and olive oil.
Enhancing Sleep: Nutrition can also play a role in restful sleep by regulating hormones and calming the body.
• Key Foods: Tryptophan-rich turkey, magnesium-filled dark leafy greens, and chamomile tea to aid relaxation.
At Blue Agave Functional Medicine, we believe in personalized nutrition to address health issues at their root. Whether improving gut health, reducing inflammation, supporting insulin function, boosting energy, or enhancing sleep, the right food choices can make a profound impact. For personalized guidance, visit us and let our team help you achieve your health goals through functional nutrition.
Visit us at www.blueagavefunctionalmedicine.com
3221 Commercial Circle, New Braunfels, TX 78132 | (830) 491-4040
ARTICLE BY SAMANTHA BOWERS
What Wurstfest Means to You
A CELEBRATION OF FLAVOR, FUN, AND TRADITION!
Crissy DeArmond
“Omg. I LOVE Wurstfest!!! It’s my favorite holiday!! I’d have to say my favorite part of Wurstfest is opening day. We love to go in to Wurst Halle for a beer, then go find our brick, head over to grab some potato pancakes then head to the Big Tent to watch Alex Meixner!”
Derek Thomas
“I like the sense of community that comes with Wurstfest. All of the organizations that the fundraising helps. It is also fun to collect pins for our tyrolean hats and Octoberfest happens to be my favorite beer.”
Jennifer Blaske
My favorite part of Wurstfest is volunteering at the Jaycees booth with my sister Kymber and our friends to raise money for a great cause. Really it’s the bretzelwursts too bc they taste amazing!”
Brooke Treadwell
“There are so many things to love about Wurstfest! We love dressing up in traditional German attire, doing the Chicken Dance in the Wursthalle, and, of course, indulging in the amazing FOOD! Our must-haves are the pork chop on a stick from the New Braunfels Little League booth and the irresistible mini German chocolate pies from the Rotary Club booth.”
Casey Frank
“Wurstfest is a celebration of tradition, support, and community. It’s all about sharing special moments with others. The nostalgia it brings is what I cherish most. Over the past 20 years, I’ve made countless memories, with new ones being created every year.”
Kat Kyle Balmos
“We love seeing your smiling faces when you stop by to make memories with us!!”
Angie Gomez
“My favorite part is the Beer, Music, and fellowship with old and new friends!”
Aaron Semper
“Wursten tachen is New Braunfels favorite food with a dark beer for the event! Wearing a German hat is a must with a local shirt!”
Revitalizing a Legacy
ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY SAMANTHA BOWERS
Brian Smith, the owner of Iron Horse Bar & Grill, has been a driving force behind the transformation of this historic establishment in New Braunfels, Texas. With a rich background in the restaurant industry, Brian's journey to Iron Horse has been marked by significant milestones, from his early days working at local Austin eateries in the 1990s to franchising Golden Corral restaurants and eventually purchasing Iron Horse in March 2022.
HOW BRIAN SMITH IS BREATHING NEW LIFE INTO A NEW BRAUNFELS ICON
“BRIAN
ENJOYS HEARING
STORIES ABOUT PEOPLE COMING HERE WHEN THEY WERE KIDS AND NOW THEY’RE FULL GROWN ADULTS AND BRINGING BACK THEIR KIDS.”
Upon acquiring the Iron Horse Bar & Grill, Brian faced the challenge of revitalizing a restaurant that had lost some of its family-friendly appeal over the years. He recognized the potential in its deep-rooted history and unique location. Still, he knew it needed a fresh approach to reclaim its place as a community staple. Under his ownership, the establishment has undergone significant renovations, including adding a beer garden and upgraded outdoor seating. The goal has been to modernize the space while preserving its historic charm, ensuring it remains a beloved spot for locals and visitors alike.
Brian's vision for Iron Horse extends beyond just physical upgrades. He has focused on creating a welcoming atmosphere for families, a notable shift from its previous reputation. "When I purchased the property, it wasn't like this at all," Brian reflects, highlighting the efforts to bring back a family-friendly environment. This has included adding amenities like a playground and organizing events that cater to all ages.
Live music is another cornerstone of Brian's strategy to revive Iron Horse. The venue has reestablished itself as a local music hub, hosting acts like Two Tons of Steel and partnering with organizations such as the German American Society to offer unique cultural experiences. These efforts have attracted a diverse crowd and reinforced Iron Horse's identity as a community gathering place.
In the future, Brian envisions expanding the Iron Horse concept to other locations, particularly in Hill Country and possibly San Antonio. His aim is to replicate Iron Horse's success by maintaining its core values of community, heritage, and quality service while adapting to new markets.
Brian Smith has made substantial strides in rejuvenating Iron Horse Bar & Grill in a short time. His blend of respect for tradition and innovative improvements ensures that this iconic venue will continue to thrive for years to come.
Iron Horse Bar & Grill - 1030 N business i-35, New Braunfels, TX
https://ironhorsegrillnbtx.com/
Discover the Culinary Treasures on Wheels in Our Community
Guide to the Best Local Food Trucks
The New Braunfels community thrives on our local food trucks’ vibrant and diverse flavors, each adding a unique touch to the town’s culinary scene. These mobile kitchens offer more than just food—they create connections. These trucks foster a sense of community, bringing neighbors together over shared meals. While there are many offerings in town, here are a couple you really must try!
ARTICLE BY SAMANTHA BOWERS
Inspired by the Ultimate Burger Press, UBP Burgers opened in 2021, bringing thick, juicy burgers to New Braunfels. Designed and manufactured in San Antonio since 2018, the Ultimate Burger Press shapes our signature patties, seasoned with UBP All Purpose Seasoning. Their most popular item, the “Original” UBP Burger, is complemented by Specialty Loaded Fries and Beer Battered Onion Rings. This food truck adds a flavorful twist to the local scene, making quality burgers for all.
840 S Elliot Knox Blvd, New Braunfels, TX
UBP Burgers Betty Lou Coffee Co.
As coffee enthusiasts, Courtney and her husband noticed a lack of quality specialty coffee in New Braunfels and decided to bring their passion to life. Last summer, they took a leap of faith and opened their coffee trailer, offering traditional espresso drinks, specialty lattes, cold brew, and more. Their most popular drink is the Nutty Betty, features real Italian pistachio creme and white chocolate. They are also excited to open a brick-and-mortar shop this fall at 5441 FM-1102.
231 Landa Street, New Braunfels, TX
Mi Frijoles
Inspired by the challenges of owning a restaurant during COVID, Andy realized the benefits of mobility and flexibility in the food industry. Transitioning to a food trailer allowed him to adapt quickly, offering different cuisines daily—like street tacos one day and Italian sandwiches the next. Their most popular items include the Italiano sandwich and street tacos. He sees their operation more as a catering company, but when the trailer is open, you’ll find Mi Frijoles at Gruene Harley Davidson or Wurstfest. With 13 years of catering experience in New Braunfels and three years with the trailer, Andy loves serving the community.
178 Landa Park Dr, New Braunfels, TX
Leading the way in pediatric dentistry since 1983
Smokey Mountain Ribs
ARTICLE BY CRAIG JONES
Lip smacking baby back ribs that take your BBQ game to another level.
directions:
Step 1. Use a butter knife to separate the membrane on the back side of the ribs from the meat. Then, take a dry paper towel to get a grip on the membrane and pull it off the ribs. You don’t want to cook your ribs with the membrane attached.
Step 2. Apply your favorite rib rub to the ribs OR make your own. I like Tony Chachere’s for a cajun flavor but I prefer to make my own using:: 1/3 cup brown sugar, 3 teaspoons kosher salt, 3 teaspoons ground black pepper, 3 teaspoons paprika, and a light sprinkling of onion powder, and garlic salt. Generously rub it down.
Step 3. Heat your smoker to 225 degrees and smoke your ribs for 3 hours for the first step of the 3-2-1 cooking method.
Step 4. Take the ribs off of the grill and set them on enough aluminum foil to wrap the ribs. Baste the ribs with brown mustard, honey, and melted butter. Finish wrapping the ribs with aluminum foil so that they are completely covered.
Step 5. Smoke for another two hours at 225 degrees. This will give your rib meat a nice saturation in awesomeness.
Step 6. Take your ribs off the grill and remove the aluminum foil. Coat your ribs in your favorite sauce. Baste them thoroughly.
Step 7. Place them back on your smoker for one more hour. Your sauce will cook into the rib meat and not be wet when they are done.
Step 8. Take them off at 205 degrees. Finish with some high heat if you like them blackened. I do. Be careful when you remove the ribs to not lose any bones as they will be ready to fall apart at this point. Use a big spatula!
Step 9. Let them sit for 15 minutes and enjoy by pulling one bone off at a time.
Experience the Nightmare on Bourbon Street
Bourbon Street Nightmare
Experience the Nightmare on Bourbon Street: a concoction of bourbon, lemon, apple cider, maple syrup, ginger, and cinnamon. Shake it all up and pour over ice, then finish each glass with a top-off of sparkling hard cider. It’s the essence of fall in a glass—just the right amount of sweetness, infused with apple and cinnamon, and made extra refreshing with a fizzy touch of sparkling hard cider.
ingredients:
• Maple syrup and cinnamon sugar, for rimming the glass
• 2oz bourbon
• 1/2 fresh lemon juice
• 1 tsp freshly grated ginger
• 1/8 tsp ground cinnamon
• 5 oz sparkling hard apple cider
• Garnish: Cinnamon sticks, rosemary sprigs and dried orange slices
ARTICLE BY CASEY FRANK
PHOTOGRAPHY
THE VILLA
A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS
OCTOBER 9TH
NBTX City Lifestyle & The Villa Small Business Mixer
1190 Gruene Rd, New Braunfels, TX | 4:00 PM
Join other small business owners every second Wednesday of the month for our small business mixer.
OCTOBER 20TH
OUTLAST Music Festival in support of Light Work 316, Inc.
1288 Loop 337, New Braunfels, TX | 11:00 AM
Get ready, New Braunfels! It’s time to turn up the volume and show your support for a truly inspiring cause! Gruene Harley Davidson and RAISE the Bar Entertainment are teaming up to bring you a day of unforgettable fun and community spirit.
OCTOBER 24TH
Downtown Spooktacular
500 Main Plaza, New Braunfels, TX | 5:00 PM
Downtown businesses, as well as the New Braunfels Police Department, Fire Department, and the Solid Waste & Recycling Division are participating in this year’s event, offering safe spots for kids to Trick-or-Treat. This year’s event will be held on October 24 from 5-7 p.m. on the streets of downtown New Braunfels.
